MONTGOMERY, Alabama -- The National Science Foundation has awarded a $336,634 grant to Alabama State University for a new summer research program.

The three-year program will offer research experience in the field of nanotechnology and microbiology to 10 undergraduates annually.

According to the ASU, the summber-based, nine week program is open to students of diverse backgrounds.

This year's batch includes students from Savannah State University, Lawson State Community College, Southern University of Louisiana, Winston-Salem State University, Auburn University and Alabama State University.

"This provides an opportunity to underrepresented groups in research, especially to those who might not otherwise have the opportunity and particularly those from academic institutions where research programs in science, technology, engineering and mathematics are limited," said Komal vig, associate professor of biology in ASU's Department of Biological Sciences.

Each student receives a stipend of $500 per week, on-campus housing at ASU, meal and travel allowances.